Skip to content
Shanghai in December

Shanghai Weather in December

🇨🇳 China

11°C
High
4°C
Low
6
Rain Days
7h
Sunshine
70%
Humidity

Asia › 🇨🇳 China › Shanghai

Updated: March 2026

Is December a Good Time to Visit Shanghai?

5/10
Fair

December is a fair time to visit Shanghai (5/10). With 7 daily sunshine hours and only 6 rain days, this month delivers genuinely reliable outdoor conditions, ranking it 10th sunniest of the year in Shanghai. Culture-focused travellers and those who prefer lighter crowds will find December a practical choice, with prices running lower than peak July without sacrificing all the good weather. January offers a similar profile at lower hotel rates if dates are flexible. The main practical note: Shanghai's popular sites are busiest between 10am and 3pm regardless of season. Arriving at opening time or after 4pm makes a significant difference to the experience. Planning tips: accommodation is generally available without long lead times, and flight prices are typically lower than peak season. Flexible travellers will find the best deals by booking 2-4 weeks ahead. Mid-week arrivals consistently unlock lower hotel rates than weekend check-ins.

vs November:17°C avg high

Based on 30-year climate normals (1991 to 2020), December in Shanghai averages 11°C by day and 4°C overnight, a range that places it at the cooler end of the annual distribution. The month records approximately 7 sunshine hours per day and 45mm of total rainfall across 6 wet days, giving it a sunshine-to-rain ratio that is broadly workable for most itineraries.

11°C

Avg High

4°C

Avg Low

6 days

Rain Days

7h

Sunshine

70%

Humidity

Temperature in Shanghai in December

The 7°C day-night temperature range is typical for continental climates: a light jacket in the morning that you shed by midday and need again after sunset. Humidity averages 70%, which is comfortable for most visitors. On warmer days, lighter fabrics help with the mild stickiness in the afternoon. The UV index of 2 is low, meaning sun exposure is minimal concern and sunscreen is largely optional. Wind averages 18 km/h, light enough to be refreshing on warm days but noticeable in open coastal areas or elevated viewpoints. In Fahrenheit: 52°F average high, 39°F overnight low. Data sourced from Open-Meteo ERA5 climate reanalysis (1991–2020 normals).

Temperature in December

Monthly Precipitation (mm)

What to Wear in Shanghai in December

Morning4°CBefore the day warms up
Afternoon11°CPeak daytime temperature
Evening7°CAfter sunset cools down

Packing for Shanghai in December means dressing for 11°C days and 4°C evenings. Layering is key: a thermal base, mid-layer fleece, and a windproof outer jacket for 11°C highs that feel colder in the wind. Evening temperatures settle at 4°C, a modest 7°C drop that a light cardigan or denim jacket covers. Comfortable walking trainers are the versatile choice for both outdoor sightseeing and indoor venues.

💡

Local tip: Temple and religious site visits require covered shoulders and knees in most of Shanghai's heritage areas. A lightweight scarf or sarong weighs almost nothing and solves the problem instantly.

Events in Shanghai in December

December has no major festivals or public holidays in Shanghai, which is one of its practical advantages for independent travellers. Attractions run at lower capacity than during peak event periods, queues are shorter, and accommodation is easier to find without needing to book many months in advance. Local restaurants, markets, and transport operate at a relaxed pace, making this an ideal time for visitors who prefer a more authentic, unhurried experience of everyday city life rather than large crowds drawn in by a single major headline event.

What to Pack for Shanghai in December

Based on 11°C average highs and 6 rainy days

  • Warm jacket (down or fleece)
  • Merino wool base layer (regulates temperature and resists odour)
  • Sweaters and lined trousers
  • Scarf and lightweight gloves
  • Comfortable walking shoes (a second pair lets the first air out overnight)
  • Universal travel adapter
  • Small day pack for city exploration
  • Reusable water bottle

Best Activities in Shanghai in December

  • Vigorous walking tour of the UNESCO heritage districtMidday (12-2pm)The 11°C peak temperature provides ideal conditions for brisk sightseeing walks
  • Cycling the riverside or park circuitAfternoon (1-4pm)Cool dry air makes long cycling sessions comfortable without overheating
  • Explore hilltop viewpoints and fortressesMorning for clear viewsCold-weather atmospheric clarity gives the longest sightlines of the year
  • Open-air Christmas or seasonal marketsAfternoon into eveningCool temperatures make festive outdoor markets genuinely atmospheric
  • Afternoon in a world-class museum or galleryAfternoon (2-5pm)Pairs well with outdoor morning activities and provides a mid-day rest from sightseeing
  • Coffee-house or traditional cafe culture experienceMid-morning or post-lunchA cultural ritual in this region that rewards slow appreciation regardless of weather
  • Evening live music, theatre, or opera performanceEvening shows typically at 7-9pmConsistent evening temperatures make getting to and from evening venues comfortable
  • Visit the main botanical garden or city park at seasonal peakYear-round; best light in morningDecember brings distinct seasonal changes to public green spaces worth exploring
  • Warm up with traditional hot dishes: local stew, fondue, or braised specialities at a neighbourhood restaurantLunch (12-2pm) or dinner (7-9pm)Cold-weather cuisine is a genuine cultural experience and the best local restaurants serve their heartiest dishes in cooler months

Why is Shanghai cool in December?

December in Shanghai reflects a mid-latitude climate pattern, with temperatures averaging 11°C by day and 4°C overnight. The city sits at 31 degrees north latitude, where the balance between solar radiation and heat loss drives conditions that are neither extreme nor static. Conditions occupy the comfortable middle band of the annual temperature range, where outdoor activity is feasible without the extremes of midsummer heat or midwinter cold. Day-to-night temperature variation of 7°C is moderate and manageable with a single mid-layer. Climate data: Open-Meteo ERA5 (1991–2020).

Sunshine Hours

The average number of hours per day with direct sunlight. Calculated from satellite measurements. Days with more than 7 hours of sunshine are ideal for outdoor activities. Under 3 hours means overcast conditions dominate.

UV Index

A scale from 0-11+ measuring ultraviolet radiation intensity. UV 0-2: Minimal risk. UV 3-5: Moderate -- wear sunscreen. UV 6-7: High -- hat and SPF 30+ essential. UV 8-10: Very High -- limit midday exposure. UV 11+: Extreme -- seek shade between 10am-4pm.

Rain Days

A rain day is counted when precipitation exceeds 0.1mm. This threshold captures even light drizzle. Unlike total rainfall in mm, rain days tells you how often you might need an umbrella, which is useful for planning outdoor activities.

Humidity

Relative humidity as a percentage. Below 40%: Dry -- skin and throat may feel parched. 40-60%: Comfortable -- ideal for most people. 60-80%: Sticky -- light, breathable fabrics recommended. Above 80%: Muggy -- heat feels more intense; quick-dry clothing is essential.

Frequently Asked Questions: Shanghai in December

In December, Shanghai experiences average highs of 11°C (52°F) and lows of 4°C (39°F). Expect around 6 rainy days and 7 hours of sunshine per day, with humidity averaging 70%. The 7°C gap between daytime and overnight temperatures is worth planning around: light layers work for most visitors during the day, but an extra jacket is essential for evenings. UV exposure is moderate at index 2.
Shanghai typically sees 6 rainy days in December, with total precipitation of around 45mm. This makes December one of the drier months of the year, and a reliable window for outdoor sightseeing and day trips. Rain showers tend to be brief when they do occur. For context, the driest month in Shanghai typically sees 4-6 fewer rain days than December.
Pack a warm jacket, sweaters, and layering pieces for Shanghai in December. Temperatures can drop to 4°C at night, so thermal underlayers are advisable for evening outings. Waterproof footwear is a sensible precaution even though rain days are limited. A scarf, hat, and gloves handle the windchill on clear cold days, which often feel colder than the thermometer reads.
December is a reasonable time to visit Shanghai. Expect 6 rainy days, so pack a light rain layer for flexibility. Average temperatures of 11°C make outdoor exploration comfortable during the dry periods. With 7 daily sunshine hours, there are reliable windows of good weather to plan outdoor activities around, even if the month is not the driest on the calendar.
The average high temperature in Shanghai in December is 11°C (52°F), and the average low is 4°C (39°F). The mean daily temperature is approximately 8°C (46°F). The day-to-night range of 7°C is moderate, meaning a single light jacket covers most situations. These are 30-year climate normals based on the 1991 to 2020 reference period; individual years will vary, particularly in transitional months like spring and autumn.
The best month to visit Shanghai is generally May. May offers the most sunshine at 9 hours per day and only 10 rainy days. Average temperatures reach 24°C, making it comfortable for sightseeing, outdoor dining, and exploring the city. If your travel dates are flexible, planning your trip around May gives you the best chance of dry, bright weather.
December is shoulder or low season in Shanghai, meaning fewer tourists and generally lower prices than peak months. With 7 sunshine hours and 6 rainy days, the weather is less of a draw for mass tourism. This is an advantage for travellers who prefer a quieter, more relaxed experience with shorter queues and easier accommodation availability.
In December, Shanghai suits a range of activities thanks to cool conditions around 11°C. With few rainy days, outdoor activities are highly recommended. Top options include exploring historic neighbourhoods, visiting museums and galleries, local food markets, and day trips to surrounding areas. With 7 hours of sunshine, parks and waterfront walks are particularly enjoyable.

December ranks 10th sunniest of the year in Shanghai, with an average 7 daily sunshine hours. The driest months are October, December, and November. July is the hottest month (31°C avg high); January is the coolest (8°C). From here, temperatures fall 3°C into January. Compared to last month (November: 17°C high, 7 rain days), December is cooler and drier. December is one of the least sunny months, but that often means lower prices and fewer fellow tourists.

Year-Round Climate

MonthHighLowRain DaysSunDetails
January8°C1°C86hView
February10°C3°C96hView
March14°C7°C117hView
April19°C12°C108hView
May24°C17°C109hView
June27°C21°C158hView
July31°C25°C1410hView
August31°C25°C1610hView
September27°C21°C119hView
October22°C16°C68hView
November17°C10°C77hView
December11°C4°C67hView

Other Months in Shanghai

JanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSepOctNovDec

Plan Your Trip to Shanghai

Best Time to Visit Shanghai

Data Sources for Shanghai

Shanghai on WikipediaOpen-Meteo Climate APINOAA National CentersUK Met OfficeWMOGeoNames

Climate normals represent 30-year averages (1991-2020). Individual years may vary.